Top Destin Dining: Best Restaurant Choices

When it comes to dining in Destin, Florida, the options are truly exceptional. Our beautiful coastal city offers a plethora of top-rated restaurants that cater to every culinary preference. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast or seeking international flavors, the Destin area has it all. But there’s a lot to choose from, and can be difficult to narrow it down and decide where to go. In this article, we will take a closer look at some of our favorite dining choices in the Destin area, including restaurants with exquisite seafood, fine dining, and breathtaking beachfront views.

From the lively atmosphere of Tommy Bahama in Sandestin to the authentic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist at Cantina Laredo, there’s something for everyone. If you’re craving fresh seafood, Stewby’s Seafood Shanty on Okaloosa Island is a must-visit, or you might want to indulge in quality steamed seafood and exceptional steaks at Old Bay Steamer. For those looking for a fun and vibrant experience, Lulu’s in Destin offers seafood favorites with a southern flair.

Emeril’s Coastal in Sandestin takes seafood dining to another level with its coastal Italian cuisine and delectable seafood specialties. With such an array of dining options, it’s no wonder that Destin, Florida is known for its top-rated restaurants, making it a go-to destination for food enthusiasts.

Tommy Bahama – Sandestin

Tommy Bahama in Sandestin offers a true island dining experience with its airy ceilings, lush tropical interiors, and island-inspired fare. Guests can savor fresh, island-inspired dishes prepared by the chef, or unwind with a signature cocktail. The restaurant is located at Grand Boulevard at Sandestin and welcomes both reservations and walk-ins.

Tommy Bahama Sandestin is renowned for its menu filled with delicious island-inspired dishes. From fresh seafood to succulent steaks, guests can indulge in a variety of flavorful options. The menu highlights the vibrant flavors of the islands, utilizing locally sourced ingredients to create unforgettable culinary creations.

One of the standout features of Tommy Bahama Sandestin is its extensive drink menu. From classic margaritas to unique craft cocktails, the bar offers a variety of signature cocktails to complement your meal. Guests can sip on refreshing concoctions while enjoying the laid-back ambiance and stunning views.

The restaurant’s tropical atmosphere sets the stage for a memorable dining experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply looking to enjoy a night out, Tommy Bahama Sandestin provides the perfect setting. The open-air design and beachy decor transport diners to a paradise-like setting, creating an unforgettable dining experience.

Island-Inspired Fare

At Tommy Bahama Sandestin, the menu is filled with island-inspired dishes that capture the flavors of the Caribbean and the Hawaiian Islands. From fresh seafood to tropical fruits, each dish is crafted with care to bring out the vibrant flavors of the islands.

Start your meal with appetizers like the Coconut Shrimp or the Ahi Poke Nachos, both bursting with flavors and served in generous portions. For the main course, indulge in the Island Hopper Combo, featuring a combination of wood-grilled shrimp, mahi-mahi, and coconut-crusted shrimp.

Vegetarians and vegans will also find plenty of options at Tommy Bahama Sandestin. The Plant-Based Paella, made with saffron-infused rice, vegetables, and plant-based chorizo, is a standout dish that will satisfy even the most discerning palates.

Signature Cocktails

No island-inspired dining experience would be complete without a selection of signature cocktails. Tommy Bahama Sandestin offers an impressive array of handcrafted drinks that perfectly complement the flavors of the dishes.

Indulge in a classic Margarita, made with fresh lime juice and top-quality tequila, or try one of the restaurant’s unique creations like the Mango Smash, a refreshing blend of mango, mint, lime, and rum. For those seeking a non-alcoholic option, the Pineapple Paradise Mocktail is a delightful choice, combining pineapple, coconut, lime, and soda.

With its extensive drink menu and skillful mixologists, Tommy Bahama Sandestin is the perfect place to kick back, relax, and enjoy a delicious island-inspired cocktail.

Cantina Laredo – Sandestin

Cantina Laredo in Sandestin offers a unique dining experience with its authentic Mexican food served with a modern twist. Guests can enjoy a variety of dishes that showcase the vibrant flavors of Mexico, all prepared with the highest quality ingredients.

From the moment you step into Cantina Laredo, you’ll be greeted with a warm and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant’s contemporary design, featuring natural woods and warm colors, creates a relaxed and comfortable ambiance.

Start your culinary journey with the wide selection of appetizers, including guacamole prepared tableside, ceviche, and queso fundido. Then, dive into the main course and indulge in delicious options like grilled fish, chicken, or steak. Each dish is cooked to perfection and served with signature sauces that add a burst of flavor. Don’t forget to try the chipotle-wine sauce and the Portobello mushroom sauce for a truly unforgettable dining experience.

To complement your meal, Cantina Laredo offers an extensive drink menu. Their award-winning margaritas are made from fresh lime juice and the finest tequila, providing a refreshing and authentic Mexican cocktail experience.

At Cantina Laredo, every dish is crafted with passion and authenticity, ensuring that each bite is a celebration of Mexican cuisine. Whether you’re indulging in a romantic dinner for two or enjoying a lively gathering with friends and family, Cantina Laredo offers an unforgettable culinary experience that combines traditional flavors with a modern twist.

Stewby’s Seafood Shanty – Okaloosa Island

Stewby’s Seafood Shanty on Okaloosa Island is a seafood lover’s paradise, offering the freshest catch on the Emerald Coast. With a commitment to quality and sustainability, Stewby’s sources its seafood locally, ensuring that every bite is bursting with the authentic flavors of the Gulf. Whether you prefer your seafood grilled to perfection or crispy and golden fried, Stewby’s has got you covered.

Located on Okaloosa Island, Stewby’s Seafood Shanty is a hidden gem that shouldn’t be missed. Step inside and immerse yourself in the cozy atmosphere that perfectly complements the mouthwatering dishes. The menu features a variety of options, from shrimp and fish to crab cakes and oysters, all prepared with great attention to detail.

For those looking for a unique dining experience, Stewby’s Steamer & Market, located right next door, offers a delightful steamed dinner menu that will satisfy even the most discerning palates. Indulge in succulent crawfish, plump shrimp, flavorful grouper, and more, all expertly steamed to perfection.

Old Bay Steamer – Okaloosa Island

For an unparalleled dining experience in Okaloosa Island, look no further than Old Bay Steamer. This renowned restaurant is known for its exceptional steaks, quality steamed seafood, and locally famous ribs. With a menu that showcases a tantalizing array of options, Old Bay Steamer is a must-visit destination for seafood enthusiasts.

Steamed seafood takes center stage at Old Bay Steamer, offering guests a taste of the ocean’s bounty. Indulge in succulent Maine lobster tails, king and snow crab legs, royal red shrimp, clams, mussels, and oysters, all expertly prepared to perfection. Each dish is infused with the flavors of the sea, delivering a truly memorable dining experience.

Not to be overshadowed by the seafood, Old Bay Steamer also offers a selection of exceptional steaks. Sink your teeth into tender cuts of prime beef, expertly grilled to your desired level of perfection. From filet mignon to ribeye, the steaks at Old Bay Steamer are sure to satisfy even the most discerning carnivores.

And let’s not forget about the locally famous ribs. These fall-off-the-bone delights are slow-cooked to perfection, ensuring a flavor-packed experience that will have you coming back for more.

Whether you’re a seafood lover, steak aficionado, or looking to indulge in some mouthwatering ribs, Old Bay Steamer is the place to be. Don’t miss out on this exceptional dining experience in the heart of Okaloosa Island.

Lulu’s – Destin

Looking for a lively dining experience that combines seafood favorites with a touch of southern flair? Look no further than Lulu’s in Destin. This vibrant restaurant offers a variety of dishes, from mouthwatering seafood options to allergy-friendly choices, all served with a southern twist.

At Lulu’s, you can indulge in classic seafood favorites like shrimp, crab, oysters, and fish cooked to perfection. The menu is thoughtfully crafted to cater to every palate, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.

But Lulu’s is more than just a restaurant. It offers a complete experience for its guests. After a delicious meal, you can take advantage of the additional amenities available. Embrace the beauty of the bay with paddleboarding, challenge your friends to arcade games, or unwind at the bayside bar while sipping on your favorite drink.

Enjoy the lively ambiance of live music and explore the gift shop, where you can find unique treasures as a souvenir of your visit to Lulu’s. The fantastic atmosphere and the friendly staff add to the overall charm, making your visit a truly memorable one.

Additional Amenities at Lulu’s:

• Paddleboarding
• Arcade Games
• Bayside Bar
• Live Music
• Gift Shop

Discover the perfect blend of delicious seafood, southern charm, and entertainment at Lulu’s in Destin. Whether you’re a seafood enthusiast, looking for a lively atmosphere, or want to experience the true flavors of the south, Lulu’s is the place to be.

Emeril’s Coastal – Sandestin

Experience a taste of coastal Italy at Emeril’s Coastal in Sandestin, where the flavors of the sea meet the richness of Italian cuisine. This renowned restaurant offers a unique seafood dining experience that will leave your taste buds wanting more.

Indulge in a menu filled with coastal Italian specialties that highlight the freshest seafood ingredients. Start your culinary journey with the Gulf shrimp cocktail, a refreshing and tangy appetizer that sets the stage for an unforgettable meal. For something a bit more decadent, try the Florida rock shrimp rolls, bursting with flavor and served with a zesty dipping sauce.

If you’re craving pasta, don’t miss the oyster spaghetti. This pasta dish showcases the marriage of land and sea, with plump oysters nestled in homemade pasta and coated in a delectable sauce. Each bite is a symphony of flavors that will transport you to the Italian coast.

The atmosphere at Emeril’s Coastal is casual and coastal, offering a perfect blend of elegance and relaxation. Located at Grand Boulevard in Miramar Beach, this restaurant is a haven for seafood enthusiasts and those seeking the finest in coastal Italian cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner for two or a memorable dining experience with friends, Emeril’s Coastal is the place to be.